The link between iron deficiency and brain development in youth with anxiety and depression
Official title: Iron Deficiency and Brain Development in Youth with Internalizing Disorders
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-10918304 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how low iron levels might impact the brain development of teenagers aged 10 to 17 who are dealing with anxiety and depression, using blood tests and brain scans to see how these factors are connected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 17, 2020 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $637,244 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH124848-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10918304 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are unmedicated adolescents aged 10 to 17 who are experiencing internalizing disorders such as anxiety or depression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are currently on medication for mental health disorders or those outside the age range of 10 to 17 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how iron deficiency may affect brain development in adolescents experiencing anxiety and depression. By enrolling unmedicated participants aged 10 to 17, the study aims to explore the relationship between iron levels in the body and brain health using advanced MRI techniques. The researchers will measure iron stores through blood tests and assess brain structure and function through imaging, providing insights into how these factors may contribute to mental health issues in young people.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for adolescents with anxiety and depression linked to iron deficiency.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated a potential link between iron deficiency and neuropsychiatric symptoms, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Calarge, Chadi a. — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Calarge, Chadi a.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.